Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Balmoral has returned to the Port of Tyne to begin a four-month programme of inspiring sailings from Newcastle.
*All details correct at time of publish (25 February 2026)
Between February and September 2026, guests can look forward to 17 carefully crafted cruises departing from the city, with durations ranging from one‑night sailings to 14‑night explorations.
The varied programme includes Northern Lights voyages in Arctic Norway, scenic cruising through Norway’ s fjords, and sailings to the Baltic, Scandinavia and Iceland.
The first cruise of the season departs Newcastle today (21st February), taking guests on a 10-night ‘In Search of the Northern Lights’ voyage.
The itinerary includes calls to Leknes, Tromsø and Ålesund, offering opportunities to witness the aurora borealis, explore dramatic Arctic landscapes and experience authentic Norwegian culture.
On board Balmoral, guests can look forward to a range of exciting enhancements introduced across Fred. Olsen’s fleet.
Dining has been expanded with the new rotating Colours & Tastes menu and an exclusive Chef’s Table experience.
A refreshed entertainment programme, delivered in partnership with RWS, will be rolled out from February, featuring refreshed daytime activities and new evening theatre productions launching from mid-2026.
Doug Glenwright, Guest Experience Director at Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome our guests from the North East back on board Balmoral as she begins her programme of sailings from Newcastle.
“This programme offers an inspiring collection of sailings – from the chance to seek out the Northern Lights in Arctic Norway to exploring Europe’s riverside cities.
“Cruising from Newcastle gives our guests the convenience of beginning their holiday close to home, whether they’re joining us for a shorter five‑night break or a longer adventure further afield. We look forward to welcoming guests on board and delivering memorable journeys in the months ahead.”
Standout sailings from Newcastle include:
In Search of the Northern Lights
Balmoral’s 10-night L2608 ‘In Search of the Northern Lights’ cruise, departing from Newcastle on 23rd March 2026. Prices start from £1,599 per person, plus, enjoy £150 of onboard spend per cabin when booked before 11 March 2026.
European Cities & Scenic Rivers
Balmoral’s 14-night L2609 ‘River Cities of France & Portugal’ cruise, departing from Newcastle on 2nd April 2026. Prices start from £2,099 per person, plus, enjoy £150 of onboard spend per cabin when booked before 11 March 2026.
Balmoral’s 9‑night L2613 ‘Exploring Iceland in Nine Nights’ cruise, departing from Newcastle on 5th May 2026. Prices start from £1,699 per person, plus, enjoy £50 of onboard spend per cabin when booked before 11 March 2026.
For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ sailings from Newcastle, visit www.fredolsencruises.com/newcastle.
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